BREEAM UK & International - emissions from products - 2014 version

More recent BREEAM version:

BREEAM 2016 version is in force. The methodology for assessing emissions from products has undergone a basic revision, see "Hea 02".

2014 regulation

Here we summarize the requirements of 2014 BREEAM versions regarding emissions from products, that need to be fulfilled if this property shall qualify for earning credits within a BREEAM certification of a building.

Examples of the 2014 BREEAM emissions requirements can be found here:(you can access that page only after registration to BREEAM webpages, which is free of charge)

Typically, the new requirements will apply if they are specified in the "Hea 02" criterion.The old version applies when it is in the "Hea 09" criterion.Some intermediate versions can be e.g. in the "Hea 03" criterion.

All these formaldehyde specifications are based on the EN 717-1 testing standard.

Option 2:Formaldehyde below 0.1 mg/m³ (100 µg/m³) when tested with either ISO 16000-6 or CDPH test method, and calculated to a concentration in a theoretical model room (as specified in ISO 16000-9 or in CDPH standard).test reports performed under ISO 16000 or CDPH standards as alternative proof of compliance instead of EN 717-1, as long as the E1 limit value is respected.

With both options: No prohibited wood preservatives are used in the case of wood panels.

Proof by testing in a ventilated test chamber after 3 days as specified in EN 13999 (2013 version), parts 1 to 4.

This allows using 3 days test results obtained for other purposes (e.g. EMICODE, AgBB, Indoor Air Comfort) for VOCs and aldehydes. These just are screened for carcinogenic and sensitising substances.

But in that case, the volatile isocyanates test data have not yet been produced and might need additional testing - at least for PUR based adhesives. For other adhesives, the isocyanates test can be omitted, as explained at the end of this page.

Use of other European or International testing standards and evaluation schemes

Since late August 2015, BREEAM International and BREEAM UK recognize Indoor Air Comfort, EMICODE and more VOC rating schemes as proof of BREEAM compliance. Separate documentation for BREEAM is needed no longer if compliance with Indoor Air Comfort or any other one of the referenced rating schemes was show.

Eurofins VOC related services

Eurofins offers documentation of compliance with the specifications on emissions of VOC and aldehydes by independent and ISO 17025 accredited testing, and if relevant also with external surveillance (inspections, re-testing), and certification, e.g. in combination with the Eurofins operated certification programme Indoor Air Comfort - certified products.

Certification and testing services for Ü mark, CE mark and the Eurofins certification program Indoor Air Comfort - certified products can be ordered in parallel for use on different market segments - there will be significant costs saving when compared to ordering these services separately.